Known for its beautiful natural landscapes and picturesque towns, Northern Italy does summer like nowhere else. Nestled between green fields, lakes, and other quaint towns is Crema, Cremona. As the setting of Call Me By Your Name (2017), this charming town now draws fans eager to relive Elio and Oliver’s summer.
Just over an hour’s train ride from Milan, Crema is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture, authentic Italian cuisine, and more recently as being the backdrop for Luca Guadagnino’s film. It’s a place where community thrives, and traditions hold strong.
Let this guide lead you through the beauty of Crema, inviting you to step into the Call Me by Your Name atmosphere to some of the iconic movie backdrops.
First things first: rent a bike
Just like Elio and Oliver in the film, people in Crema rely on bikes to get around — it’s part of the local rhythm. Through cobbled side streets, parks and countryside, bikes are the quickest and cheapest way to get around. Not to mention, you will get to experience the true CMBYN experience. Some accommodations have bikes available, but there are also plenty of places in the town to rent bikes. Check out Dal Ciclista Crema who offer a day rental for €20/£17.06.
Some filming locations, like Fontanile Quarantina and Cascina San Giorgio, are over 10km away, so prepare for lots of cycling.
Piazza Duomo: the heartbeat of Crema
Outside a café in the main square, Oliver turns to Elio in the stillness and asks how people pass the time in Crema. Elio responds that there’s nothing to do – they just wait for summer to end.
Piazza Duomo is a lively gathering place for locals and visitors alike, hosting markets, festivals, and cultural events throughout the year. At the square’s heart stands Crema Cathedral, a stunning 13th-century example of Lombard Romanesque architecture. A host of restaurants and cafes are dotted around here, which are perfect for enjoying the elegant buildings and a coffee. Check out Gglace for an iced coffee (€4.50/£3.84) or gelato (prices from €4.50/£3.84), or if you fancy something more filling, walk five minutes to Al Dòmm for some delicious pasta, with prices starting at €10/£8.53.
Also located in Piazza Duomo is the tourist office, which has welcomed fans from around the world since the movie’s release in 2017. Dedicated to film enthusiasts, it showcases the real bikes used on set, a map of movie locations, and a gift shop. It’s the perfect place to familiarise yourself with the town and plan your tour of the film’s iconic spots. Take a leisurely ride through the cobbled streets and discover more film locations scattered throughout the town.
A short ride away – Fontanile Quarantina & Laghetto Dei Riflessi
A 13 km bike ride from Crema, Fontanile Quarantina is an iconic part of the film and a beautiful one too. Although gaining fame since the release of the film back in 2017, this small spring holds a rich history dating back centuries. Believed to be the oldest fountain in Capralba, the structure dates back to ancient times. Its name likely comes from its former owner, Giovannino Benzoni, nicknamed ‘Quarantino’ by locals.
Laghetto Dei Riflessi, meaning ‘water mirror,’ is a turquoise lake nestled in the Serio River Park. Known for its rich wildlife, including turtles, it’s the spot where Elio and Oliver share a swim in Call Me By Your Name. Outside the world of the film, swimming is not allowed, but visitors can unwind on the grassy banks and take in the lake’s peaceful charm.
Explore Pandino: Monumento ai Caduti
The Piave Memorial to the Fallen in Pandino is a World War I memorial that honours the town’s soldiers, specifically those who died in the Battle of the Piave. It was unveiled in 1928, marking the tenth anniversary of Italy’s victory in the war. It is now famous as the setting for a pivotal moment when Elio first confesses his feelings to Oliver.
Cycling through scenic fields and charming traditional towns, the ride is an enjoyable one. Relax with a cappuccino for around €3/£2.56 at Tabaccheria del Castello, the spot where Oliver once bought his Gauloises Blondes. Then take a seat outside in the square to soak it all in. Don’t miss a quick visit to Visconteo Castle and Santa Margherita Church just opposite the memorial in Pandino!
Crema offers a rich blend of Italian culture, history, and hospitality. With a rhythmic hum of cicadas and warm greetings by locals, this town provides a tranquility for visitors. Exploring the now-iconic filming locations of Call Me by Your Name adds a cinematic layer to the experience. Whether you’re passing through or staying longer, Crema’s understated charm is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Words by Amber Lowen
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